In this 12th Gideon Oliver mystery, Hawaiian history and culture form the backdrop for a horrific murder. The anthropologist vacations on the islands, yet quickly becomes intrigued by the mysterious killing of two Swedish cattle ranchers. Detective story mixes with local color, as conflicts between native Hawaiians and Haole (white Europeans) arise. Composed of insatiable wit and a sharp mind, Oliver uncovers a secret unknown even to the police. The aging, yet horny, Oliver, with the frequent aid of his park ranger wife Julie and FBI friend, John Lau, takes another case.  (HWI92, $7.99)

A Gideon Oliver Mystery